Surviving harsh conditions: Bactrian camels have several ways to survive extreme weather conditions. They have two humps that store fat, which can be converted to water and energy, and they rarely sweat, helping them conserve fluids. A thirsty camel can drink 30 gallons of water in only 13 minutes. They are protected from blowing sand by bushy eyebrows, two rows of long eyelashes, and nostrils that can close. Large, flat footpads help them navigate rocky terrain and sand. Bactrian camels have a shaggy coat that protects them in winter weather that can fall to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The coat falls away at the approach of summer, which can reach over 100 degrees.

Family time: Bulgan shares his zoo habitat with his mother Suren, 4, and an 18-year-old female Bactrian camel named Princess. Bulgan loves Princess like a grandmother or favorite aunt, but the feeling isnít always mutual. Princess can become annoyed and has spit at the calf. But, according to Detroit Zoo Curator of Mammals Bob Lessnau, the calf has been good therapy for the older camel, forcing her to move more often, which helps relieve her arthritis. Bulganís father, Rusty, a large 4-year-old, will soon rejoin the family unit.

Next week: Three grizzly bear cubs named Mike, Thor and Boo.

ó Joe Ballor, Daily Tribune

Editorís note: This is the first in a weekly series that takes a close look at the animals of the Detroit Zoo